Iola Brown's Obituary
Iola Catherine Brown, a lifelong Tacoma resident, passed away in her home on December 23rd, with her daughters by her side. With a strong will and positive attitude, she bravely fought a 24 year battle with cancer that served as an inspiration to many. She rarely spoke of her health challenges and always managed to have a healthy, beautiful glow about her.
Iola was born on April 11th, 1945 to Alfred and Leona Gangle and was the adored younger sister of Diane. She attended Holy Rosary Grade School and Aquinas Academy, graduating with the class of ’63. She fondly spoke of regular family trips to South Dakota as she was growing up to visit her grandparents on their farm.
Iola was married to Tom Hunter and together they had two daughters, Lisa and Lynn. During their ten-year marriage, the young family enjoyed Sunday drives, boating, ice-skating, and many mountain and ocean trips. Iola very much enjoyed being a mom. She was actively involved in Fawcett Elementary School PTA and was a Brownie leader.
In 1987, Iola married Wendell Brown after a ten-year courtship. They wed in the dream home they built together in South Tacoma. Together they greatly enjoyed travel throughout the U.S. and Europe, with Rome being Iola’s favorite destination and a cross-country train trip being a highlight.
After her first diagnosis in 1993, she along with a friend went in search of a cancer support group. When they were unable to find a “fun” group, they founded The Ladies in Pink, a support group that raised thousands of dollars for cancer research over the years and continues today.
Iola and Wendell’s very greatest joy came from being grandparents and creating many holiday memories in their home. Their Easter celebrations included a fiercely competitive egg hunt, Thanksgiving always wrapped up with an evening of Bingo, and every Christmas holiday season began with a family trip to Seattle for dinner and a show at the 5th Avenue Theater. These will be forever treasured memories.
Iola enjoyed a long career with Tapco Credit Union. She made many cherished friendships with both colleagues and members. She and Wendell were active boosters of the Southend Boys & Girls Club. She was Wendell’s biggest supporter as he ran for and held various offices in local Pierce County government. Upon her retirement from Tapco, she was instrumental in establishing the Pacific Avenue Business District. Wendell preceded her in death after his own battle with cancer in September of 2015.
A special thank you to caregiver Ruthie Maytorena who provided care and friendship to Iola over the last six months, and helped make it possible for Iola to stay in her home. Ruthie’s positive energy improved Iola’s quality of life in her final months.
Iola is survived by sister Diane Nolan, daughters Lisa Almonte (David) & Lynn Tuttle (Lane Smith), step-son Chris Brown (Jen), grandchildren Allison (Max), Gina, Eric, Nicolas, Natalie, Adam, Ben and twin great-granddaughters Ava & Brooklynn. Diane’s daughters Karen Shannon and Michelle Stolberg and their families, both of Portland, also survive her, along with many Brown family members and many dear friends. Her faithful pups, Max and Maddie, never left her side.
A memorial service will be held on Saturday, January 27th, at 11:30 am at the Mountain View Memorial Park Aspen Chapel. Following the service, the celebration of Iola’s life will continue at her home.
Iola would be delighted if memorial donations were made to the Rachel Lynn Henley Foundation. Rachel was a dear friend of Iola’s grand-daughters. Like Iola, Rachel was also a warrior in the battle against cancer. After Rachel’s passing, her family honored her wish to create a foundation to support various cancer research organizations and organizations that support the daily lives of those living with cancer.
It is possible to donate online at rachellynnhenleyfoundation.org or checks can be mailed to the foundation c/o Mary Henley, 3323 North 18th, Tacoma, WA 98406.
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